As potential buyers drive or scroll past your home, the first impression it makes is important. Whether you’re trying to sell your home shortly or in a decade’s time, make sure to focus on outside improvements as well as in. Increasing curb appeal and the function of outdoor spaces provide greater ROI than you may imagine.
Here are five outdoor upgrades that add value to your home.
1. Landscaping
Taking the time to design an outdoor oasis complete with perennials like trees and food-bearing beds is one of the most expensive ways to add value to your home.
If you plan on selling your house years down the road, do your research and find trees that will add beauty and shade to your property without completely taking over. My time you’re ready to sell, they’ll be mature and majestic. If you have less time, add pops of color with hanging plants and decorative planters to step up your curb appeal.
2. Decks and Patios
Decks and patios require effort and capital to create but are worth it in the long run. These coveted spaces add entertainment space and make backyards more functional.
On average, patios boast a 100% return on investment and wooden decks about 82% ROI. If you have one or both of these features, repairing, refinishing, and staining them give you the chance to recover 600% of those costs.
3. Fire Features
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can range from DIY projects to major installations. But providing a place for cooking and conversation can recover as much as 78% of costs. Just make sure that the structure is safe, sturdy, and complies with local guidelines. Bonus points if you add a natural gas line.
4. Pergolas or Extended Roofs
Building a pergola or roof extension hasn’t maintained the same ROI over the years, though generally, it offers about 50% recovery of costs. Low cost, prefabricated sun sails or DIY (and beautiful) constructions can increase your return.
Roof extensions will need to adhere to building codes and removable canvas can make a pergola extra functional. If you can recover the other half of the cost by enjoying it yourself for a few years, either option is worth it.
5. Swimming Pools
There’s an ongoing debate whether pools actually add value. It typically depends on the climate you live in, the maintenance it needs, and how often a homeowner will use it. Matching the right pool or the right buyer could mean a 50% recovery and a luxurious experience in the meantime.
Pools can be a deal breaker for some potential buyers for associated maintenance, so approach the upgrade with caution. For homeowners who are wary about adding a pool, increase your chance of recovering half the cost by choosing a size that doesn’t sacrifice the entire yard and has a built-in maintenance system.
